CWI News – Dec. 12, 2025
In the Spotlight
President Gordon Jones joined the Marketing and Communications team this week to film CWI’s “Year in Review” video, reflecting on 2025 and highlighting transformative moments across campus — along with the achievements of our students, faculty, and staff. Keep an eye out for the finished video in next Friday, Dec. 19's newsletter!
News Highlights
Bach Finds His Fit at CWI
Robert Bach’s path to the College of Western Idaho (CWI) wasn’t a straight line, but it led him exactly where he needed to be. After years of work and readjustments, Bach returned to the classroom not just to earn a degree, but to reshape his future.
A Treasure Valley native, Bach graduated from high school in 2014. Like many young adults, he spent the next several years trying to figure out what would come next. He briefly attended a college in Arizona, but the experience didn’t unfold as planned. Before long, he returned home to Idaho and stepped into the workforce.
For a few years, Bach worked in customer service and tech support. While the role provided stability, it did not offer the fulfillment he was searching for and ultimately took a toll on his well-being.
“I knew I didn’t want this to be the rest of my life,” Bach said.
Eventually, the stress of the work caught up with him. What began as exhaustion became a turning point and forced him to take a pause and reconsider the direction his life was heading.
“That was the moment I knew I had to do something different,” he said.
That “something different” brought Bach to CWI in 2021. He didn’t arrive with a detailed career plan. He just knew he wanted to work with his hands and build something real.
“I wanted to do something with metal,” he said. “I started looking at my options and watching videos, and when I saw machine tool, I got really interested. I really loved it.”
That instinct led him to enroll in CWI’s Machine Tool Technology program, where he found both challenge and clarity. The work demanded precision and problem-solving and gave Bach a sense of purpose he had been missing.
“I loved machining,” he said. “The labs and equipment at CWI are world class. I actually like being the guy pushing buttons — loading code, loading metal, and watching it come together. It just all clicks for me.”
After completing that program, Bach expanded his skill set and enrolled in CWI’s Welding and Metals Fabrication program, a more physical discipline that pushed him in new ways.
Four years later, Bach earned two Associate of Applied Science degrees from both programs, along with multiple welding certifications. He had accomplished more than he once thought possible. Still, his CWI journey wasn’t finished.
Toward the end of his welding program, Bach was encouraged by Welding and Metals Fabrication Department Chair, Mike Wheeler, to look beyond the shop floor and consider what could come next. That conversation led him to CWI’s Business Administration Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) degree, a program created for technically trained students who want to develop leadership skills in management, finance, marketing, and entrepreneurship.
“I thought about going for a bachelor’s degree at a university, but the cost was too high,” Bach said. “When I found out CWI was offering a BAS degree, I thought, ‘This fills in gaps in my education.’”
Business wasn’t something Bach pictured for himself before CWI, but it didn’t take long to see how much it mattered.
“The business degree helps if I want to run my own projects someday or move forward in a career,” he said.
Today, Bach approaches his studies as he would a full-time job, with focus and determination. Some courses have pushed him outside his comfort zone, but each challenge has strengthened his confidence and ability.
He doesn’t do it alone. Bach credits his instructors for their patience and encouragement and CWI Tutoring Services for helping him through his hardest classes.
Outside the classroom, Bach holds a role that carries just as much weight.
He works as a certified caregiver for his younger brother, who has special needs and requires around-the-clock care. The responsibility limits how much outside work he can take on during the school year and makes financial support essential.
That’s where scholarships have changed everything.
A recipient of the John Nordstrom Business Faculty Scholarship, the Local First Pleasant Valley Solar Scholarship, and the College’s Faculty Scholarship, Bach says the support has made the difference between getting by and moving forward.
“Scholarships make it possible for me to go to school and help my family,” he said.
Bach plans to graduate in May 2027 and return to the machine tool industry, continuing to build the career he once struggled to imagine. Eventually, he wants to use his bachelor’s degree to grow within a company or even open a fabrication shop of his own.
“I’m nervous,” he admitted. “But I’m hopeful.”
After years of searching for direction, Bach finally feels steady. Through CWI, he has gained not only technical skills but also the confidence to build a future with purpose.
Fall 2025 Fire Service Technology Graduation Ceremony
Graduates from College of Western Idaho’s (CWI) Fire Service Technology Class 7 walked across the Nampa Civic Center stage on Dec. 10, taking the Firefighter Code of Ethics oath to mark the completion of their training.
This year’s ceremony recognized 19 graduates, who earned their Basic Technical Certificate, and one student who completed an Associate of Arts degree, highlighting the continued growth and success of CWI’s Fire Service Technology program.
The ceremony kicked off with Director of Fire Service Technology, Darrin Raskopf, welcoming graduates’ family members, friends, and special guests. Graduates and instructors marched into the ceremony carrying flags and leading attendees in the Pledge of Allegiance.
Raskopf then introduced Provost Denise Aberle-Cannata, who delivered remarks on behalf of CWI administration. She acknowledged the graduates’ dedication throughout their rigorous training and shared her excitement for the impact they will make as they enter the fire service.
“The fact that you’ve made it this far, there is nothing that is going to stop you from moving forward,” Aberle-Cannata said.
Raskopf followed with his own reflections on Class 7. He praised the group’s unity, work ethic, and resilience, noting the strong support system of families, instructors, and community partners who contributed to the class’s success.
“You are a great class,” Raskopf said. “You came together early. You bonded as a team, you worked as a team. You helped each other when there were struggles, and you pushed each other to be better. Usually that takes weeks — but you all were able to achieve that sooner than we expected.”
Two students were unable to attend the ceremony because they had already been hired by Twin Falls Fire Department and were completing onboarding and new-hire training. Raskopf also noted several other graduates in Class 7 have already received offers of employment at other stations as they prepare to enter the fire service.
The ceremony’s keynote address was delivered by Chief Matt Anderson of Middleton–Star Fire Protection District. Anderson shared his own reflections on going through the academy, recognized the graduates’ hard work, and offered guidance as they transition into the fire service.
“From this moment on, every second of your life must be based on selfless service to something greater than yourself,” Anderson said. “There are no days off from that. There are no breaks and there's no moments where you can switch it off. From this moment forward, it's your calling. When you take this oath and you wear a badge, you stand for something bigger than you.”
The ceremony also recognized additional student honors, including Kemper Hessing, who received the Most Physically Improved Award.
Graduate Christian Tiner was honored with the Fall 2025 Top Academic Award. Tiner spoke about how the class grew over 16 intense weeks — starting as nervous recruits and finishing as a strong, disciplined team. He reflected on the challenges they overcame together, the trust they built, and the high standards they learned to uphold. He thanked instructors, families, and the Treasure Valley fire community for their support and shared his pride in his classmates as they move forward in their fire careers.
“We did this together,” Tiner said. “We pushed each other to be better, we held each other accountable, and we built friendships and trust that don’t end today. While we may be heading in different directions, we share the same purpose: to serve, to protect, and to continue growing into the firefighters we want to become.”
CWI Selected as 2025 NWCCU Beacon Award Recipient
College of Western Idaho (CWI) has been named the 2025 Beacon Award recipient by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU). The award recognizes institutions that demonstrate innovation and measurable impact on student success. CWI earned this honor for its “Strengthening Math Pathways Through Mastery, Support, and Coaching” initiative, a comprehensive effort to improve student readiness and completion in gateway math.
The initiative is led by CWI’s Math Solutions Center (MSC) which was created in 2015 and serves as the central hub for the College’s math redesign and student support efforts. Before the redesign, only 31% of students who began developmental math completed a gateway course within one year. Students enrolled in remedial math faced low pass rates, particularly in an emporium-style model that lacked structure and engagement.
Strengthening Math Pathways
In response, CWI implemented a student-centered approach grounded in equity and data. The College created structured course pathways and shifted the model to live, lecture-based instruction supported by mastery-based learning.
CWI also expanded co-requisite course options such as College Algebra Plus (MATH 143P), allowing students to enroll directly in a gateway math course while receiving concurrent academic support. In-person courses now include direct instruction, while asynchronous sections are built around high-quality video lessons. All formats emphasize foundational algebra skills essential for success in gateway math. The redesign also incorporates a strong emphasis on soft skills including time management and academic confidence building to support independent learning.
A major component of the initiative is CWI’s Math Coaching Model (CMC). After completing placement testing, students meet individually with Math Coaches to review results, plan math pathways, and receive proactive outreach throughout the term. All placement testing is now centralized in the MSC to create consistent, personalized support from the start of a student’s math journey.
Results Show Strong Gains
The new structure is delivering strong results. After implementing course due dates and additional academic support, pass rates for Introductory Prep Math (MATH 097) increased from 40% in Fall 2022 to 65% in Fall 2024. Across the full sequence, pass rates also improved significantly: Expanded Prep Math (Math 099) increased from 39% to 81%, and Advanced Prep Math (Math 098) increased from 59% to 65% over the same period. In addition, the percentage of students progressing from remedial math to completing a gateway math course within one year rose from 31% to 47% between 2022 and 2024.
The initiative is led by Dean of Science, Technology and Math, Kae Jensen, and Math Solutions Center Manager, Jennifer Miller, whose leadership has been crucial to the redesign and its measurable gains. The work has been successful thanks to a full team of MSC employees and college-wide support for interventions developed through assessment review and continuous improvement.
“This recognition reflects the dedication of our faculty, staff, and students in creating pathways that remove barriers and support success,” said Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs, Denise Aberle-Cannata. “At CWI, we innovate with purpose, making sure every student has the guidance, resources, and opportunities they need to achieve their goals.”
The Beacon Award is presented annually to NWCCU-member institutions that demonstrate excellence in student achievement and success through distinctive, measurable, and replicable innovation.
Adult Education Helps Canyon County Students Build Brighter Futures
On a quiet afternoon in Canyon County, a small classroom hums with determination. Laptops open, pens poised, and College of Western Idaho (CWI) Adult Education teachers’ encouraging words fill the air. For students in the Canyon County Juvenile Probation (CCJP) Program, this isn’t just a class, it’s a chance to rewrite their story.
Since its beginning in 2017, led in partnership with CWI, has provided at-risk youth with more than just education. It offers a foundation of support, guidance, and belief in what they can achieve.
“Students don’t just need lessons, they need to be seen,” said Adult Education teacher, Lynda Cartwright. “Our role isn’t just teaching, they need to know someone believes in them. That’s what makes the difference.”
The program grew out of outreach efforts involving CWI enrollment counselors and Adult Education staff. Initially, counselors and Adult Education representatives visited the detention center once a month to discuss educational opportunities available after release. Through these visits, a partnership with the probation department was formed to explore ways to support students working toward their GED while on probation. From these discussions, the CCJP tutoring program was created, starting small and eventually growing to two classes taught on-site twice per week.
Since its launch, the program has served more than 260 students. Of those, 69 completed their GED during their time in CCJP, while others who didn’t finish often continue their GED journey on campus after probation.
“When students first walk in, many are nervous or unsure,” said Adult Education teacher, Vicki Flowers. “But with consistent support, you see the shift. They start to realize they’re capable, and that confidence fuels everything else.”
The results are clear, and Cartwright and Flowers take pride in the many students they have supported. One student fulfilled his dream of becoming a firefighter, while another, who initially struggled with reading, earned his GED, completed Commercial Driver’s License training, and is now a long-haul trucker. A third student, who entered the program while about to become a parent, completed her coursework and celebrated graduation with her newborn and entire family in attendance. Programs like Idaho Launch have further expanded opportunities, enabling students to pursue careers ranging from nursing to entrepreneurship.
Beyond academic achievement, the program nurtures strength. Adult Education teachers and probation officers work closely, reporting measurable progress and celebrating victories — big and small. Partnerships with organizations like the Idaho Department of Labor help make sure students have access to resources such as GED testing stipends, helping remove financial barriers that could otherwise block success.
“The most rewarding part is seeing that moment when it clicks,” Cartwright said. “You see a student go from doubt to confidence, and then you see them take those first steps toward a future they didn’t think was possible.”
Over the years, the program has grown and evolved, securing grants, upgrading technology, and maintaining a consistent team of educators dedicated to this mission. However, its heart remains the same: a commitment to helping youth see their potential, develop skills, and build a better future.
2025-2026 Winter Break Hours
College of Western Idaho (CWI) locations and services will operate under special hours for the holidays and winter break from Dec. 22 through Jan. 19.
All campus buildings and One Stop Student Services locations will be closed Dec. 24 – 27, Dec. 31 (early closure), Jan. 1 – 2, and Jan. 19.
One Stop Student Services
Regular Hours
Nampa Campus Micron Education Center (NMEC)
Monday – Thursday
9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Friday
10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Ada County Campus Lynx Building (ALYN)
Monday – Thursday
9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Friday
10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Closures
Tuesday, Dec. 16
Closed
Wednesday, Dec. 17*
9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
*ALYN only, NMEC will operate as normal
Dec. 24 – Dec. 26
Closed
Wednesday, Dec. 31
9 a.m. – noon (early closure)
Jan. 1 – 2
Closed
Jan. 19
Closed
Visit the One Stop page for more information on hours and locations.
CWI Buildings Winter Break Hours
Ada County Campus Pintail Building
Monday – Thursday
7:30 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Friday
7 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Saturday
Closed
Ada County Campus Mallard Building
Monday – Thursday
7 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Friday
7 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Saturday
Closed
Ada County Campus Lynx Building
Monday – Thursday
9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Friday
10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Monday – Thursday
7:30 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Friday
7:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Saturday
Closed
Nampa Campus Academic Building
Monday – Friday*
7:30 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Saturday**
Closed
*Select Wednesdays will have 8 p.m. closure on two dates.
**The building will be open Saturday, Jan. 3, from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Nampa Campus Administration Building
Monday – Friday
7:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Saturday
Closed
Nampa Campus Aspen Classroom Building
Monday – Thursday
7:30 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Friday
7:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Saturday
Closed
Nampa Campus Micron Education Center
Monday – Friday
7:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Saturday*
Closed
*Select Saturdays will be open for classes
Nampa Campus Multipurpose Building
Monday – Friday
7 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Saturday
Closed
Nampa Campus Health & Science Building
Monday, Thursday
7:30 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday
7:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Nampa Campus Agricultural Sciences Complex Simplot Agriculture Building
Monday – Friday
7 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Regular business hours will resume on Tuesday, Jan. 20.
Visit the Locations page for more CWI building information.
Your Gift Can Change a Student’s Life
As the end of 2025 approaches, College of Western Idaho (CWI) invites our community to come together in support of students who are working tirelessly to build better futures for themselves and their families. This year, your generosity can go even further: an anonymous donor will add an extra $100 to the fund of your choice when you start a new recurring gift before December 31.
Your support makes a direct and profound difference for students like Jacob “Jake” Santiago – a father, veteran, full-time worker, and now a first-year Marketing Communications student at the College. Santiago balances early mornings, long days, and multiple obligations to pursue his education.
Like many CWI students, Santiago returned to school later in life, determined to show his daughter that opportunity is always within reach.
“This also teaches my daughter a valuable lesson that it’s never too late for education,” Santiago shared.
Scholarship support has been essential in helping him manage tuition, materials, and the added costs that come with being a full-time student while juggling work and family.
“It means a great deal to me,” Santiago said. “It assists me in my learning process. It helps with things that go along with school costs, and it helps me give back to the community.”
This is the impact donors make: lifting financial burdens, creating opportunities, and empowering students to persist even when life is demanding.
When you invest in CWI students before Dec. 31, your gift helps students, like Santiago, stay focused on school, not finances, and keeps higher education accessible in the Treasure Valley.
Thanks to this year’s special match, your impact multiplies: Start a new recurring gift today, and an extra $100 will be added to the fund you choose.
That means more scholarships, more resources, more possibilities - especially for students who are working, parenting, serving their community, and striving to create a better future for themselves and their families.
Santiago wants donors to know how deeply their support matters.
“I would like to sincerely thank you for your support towards the college and students,” he said. “It is nice to know that there are people in the world like you who are willing to give up their hard-earned money to a student who can use it in their education.”
As 2025 comes to a close, CWI invites you to join us in empowering more students like Santiago. Your generosity helps students stay enrolled, succeed in their programs, and move confidently toward their goals, no matter what challenges they face.
Give today. Change a student’s life tomorrow — and unlock an extra $100 when you start a new recurring gift.
CWI’s New Photo Library
The Marketing & Communications department at College of Western Idaho (CWI) has a new Digital Asset Management system designed to make finding and utilizing College photos easier than ever. This upgraded photo library gives you quick access to images that showcase the spirit, people, and places of CWI.
Faculty and staff can log in through the CWI network using single sign-on credentials. Once inside, you can search, view, and download photos to support college-related projects. The system is built to save you time and help you highlight the incredible stories growing across our campuses.
Start exploring today and discover the visual resources available to help you create your work!
Additional information about the new system can be found on the Marketing & Communications SharePoint page. For specific guidance on using the new system, consult the “How To: Search & Download Images in CWI Photo Library” Guide, which walks you through key features and downloading processes.
Ready, Set, Thrive!
Get ready for an exciting new semester at College of Western Idaho (CWI). The Office of Student Engagement is thrilled to offer new students the opportunity to prepare themselves for the Spring 2026 semester ahead.
Join us for Ready, Set, Thrive! This multi-location event is designed to help students get organized before the first day of the new academic semester by offering support in locating classrooms based on student class schedules at select campus locations.
Ready, Set, Thrive!
Friday, Jan. 16
1 – 4 p.m.
Campus Stations:
- Ada County Center Pintail Building (APIN), Student Commons
- Nampa Campus Academic Building (NCAB), lobby
- Nampa Campus Academic Building (NMEC), lobby
Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to kick-start your college journey! We can’t wait to welcome you to the CWI community!
To learn more, contact Student Engagement at studentengagement@cwi.edu.
Apply Now for CWI’s Spring 2026 Honors Program
Looking for a college experience that challenges you and sets you up for success? The Honors Program at College of Western Idaho (CWI) is now accepting applications for Spring 2026 and looking for incoming or first-semester students to join a community of motivated learners.
The Honors Program isn't just another line on your transcript – it is a chance to grow academically, connect with peers, and build skills that will benefit you now and in the future.
Honors students enjoy:
- Intimate Learning Environments. Smaller, specialized classes taught by long-time faculty members, designed specifically with Honors students in mind.
- A built-in community. Motivated, high-achieving peers who share your academic ambitions. You will collaborate, study, and grow alongside students who are just as driven as you are.
- A $1,000 scholarship. The scholarship continues even when your honors credits have been earned.
- Personalized support. A dedicated faculty advisor who will guide you through your academic path and help you reach your goals.
- Recognition that matters. Earn honors regalia at graduation and see your achievement acknowledged on both your transcript and diploma.
- Guaranteed transfer advantages. Gain automatic acceptance into honors programs at Boise State University, Idaho State University, University of Idaho, or The College of Idaho when you are ready to continue your education.
The Honors Program is designed to challenge and support you. As an Honors student, you will:
- Maintain full-time enrollment (12 credits per semester).
- Complete 10 credits of honors-designated classes with a C or higher, either through honors-designated courses or through a “build-your-own honors program” through contracts with faculty.
- Maintain a 3.25 GPA each semester.
- Attend one CWI-sponsored event per semester.
- Check in each semester to report your GPA and any changes to financial aid or degree program.
These expectations keep you on track while getting the support you need to thrive.
Don't miss this chance to elevate your college experience. Applications for Spring 2026 are open now!
If you're a full-time, degree-seeking student in your first or second semester, you’re invited to apply here.
Your future starts here — make it an Honors future.
Faculty, Have You Nominated an Emerging Scholar?
College of Western Idaho (CWI) faculty are invited to nominate outstanding students for the Emerging Scholars program, recognizing learners who go beyond grades to show perseverance, creativity, professionalism, and promise.
Nominations
- Faculty may nominate up to five students per academic year.
- Eligible students must:
- Be enrolled in six or more credits during both fall and spring of the 2026–2027 academic year.
- Have a minimum GPA of 2.0.
- Not be a dual-credit student.
- Nominations should share specific stories or examples of how the student excelled through innovative thinking, leadership, applied learning, or unique contributions.
- Short excerpts of student work are welcome within the word limits of the form.
Awards
- Students selected as Emerging Scholars will each receive a $1,000 scholarship toward tuition for the 2026–2027 academic year
- Up to four students will be recognized in each School of Instruction, plus one at-large award
- Awardees will be honored at a ceremony to be held at the Nampa Campus Academic Building (NCAB)
Deadline
- Nominations are due by April 1, 2026.
Take a moment to recognize the inspiring students in your classes! For questions, please contact Brenda Fisher at brendafisher@cwi.edu.
2025 Holiday Check Processing Notice
Due to campus closures for Fall and Winter Breaks, College of Western Idaho’s (CWI) Business Office will not issue employee reimbursement or vendor checks on the following dates:
Nov. 24 – 28
Normal processing of checks will resume Dec. 4.
Dec. 22 – Jan. 2
Normal processing of checks will resume on Jan. 9.
If you have questions or are in need of more information, contact Accounts Payable at accountspayable@cwi.edu.